Today on the blog, we feature Tanuja Ramani, founder and artist – illustrator at Cloudy Sky Studio; Chennai. She speaks about her creative venture and her brand story …  

1.Tell us a bit about yourself.   

Hello! My name is Tanuja Ramani, and I am an artist and illustrator from Chennai. I created Cloudy Sky Studio in 2018 as an outlet for my illustration work and love for designing patterns, stationery and homewares. My goal for the coming years is to use my skills to give back to the community in a meaningful way—to work on projects and support organisations that work for people, animals, and the environment. 

I constantly take inspiration and ideas from my surroundings in urban India, the history of art and material culture and the interplay between our built environment and the natural world. My interests outside of art include spending time in nature, practising yoga and running, and reading. Simple things make me the happiest—grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend, organising, experimenting with baking vegan desserts, and hanging out with our two cats.

2. Why did you become a maker?  Why is making so important to you?  

Art was a natural form of expression for me from a young age. I started drawing by myself when I was around 3, and pretty much haven’t stopped since then! Although pursuing this field is not always the easiest or most lucrative in the early stages, it’s extremely fulfilling. I wake up every morning and go to bed at night thinking of projects I want to do, and work I want to create, wishing there were more hours in a day to accomplish everything! I can’t imagine doing anything else.

On a deeper note, I also just think pushing through your feelings and just creating work is one of the best ways I know of, to work through a rut in life. If you put in the work, you are almost always guaranteed a brighter outcome.

3. How did you begin Cloudy Sky Studio?

I had been painting and selling original art work for a few years, while also creating editorial illustration for clients, and working as a graphic designer creating logos and brand identities. I realised that I was essentially working in three vastly different fields, and at least two distinct art styles. 

My gallery/fine art work is primarily charcoal and graphite, monochromatic and created in the moment from a photograph I’ve taken, theme or idea. 

On the other hand, my illustration work often incorporates watercolour and other mixed media; I’m inspired by vintage illustration, and I sometimes use many references for a piece, and explore themes that are much more varied. I collaborate with art directors and clients to create art for product packaging, magazines, books and installations.

I couldn’t imagine giving up either of these practices as they are both equally important to me. So it made sense to give each its’ own identity and space to breathe so I could fully explore what’s possible.

4. What is the story behind your brand name ?

I’ve always loved rainy weather, and I think most people who’ve grown up in a hot climate would agree! There’s something about a cloudy sky and rain that imbues life with a cosy and peaceful vibe, and I think it’s a subtle, mixed feeling that I would like my art to embody.

5. How has your business evolved?    

It’s still early stages for me, so I’m open to evolving and can’t wait to see where we are years down the line.

6. Your work space. 

I’m so lucky to have a room that I can work out of in the apartment that I share with my husband. My favourite thing about it is the view outside — we are surrounded by trees and it’s amazing to have such greenery around you right in the middle of the city. I’m thankful everyday for this space, as I know the struggle of not having a dedicated space to work out of. 

My table set up is pretty simple and neat; I’m not one to have a messy workspace. I need things around me to be organised so I can focus. 

7. Your favorite work tool.

It’s a difficult choice to make to pick just one! I love the Fabriano hot press watercolour paper, graphite pencils by Steadtler, and Faber Castell Polychromos are the best coloured pencils I’ve used. I’m not too particular about specific brands though, and it is always possible to create great things with the simplest of tools. I really have quite a minimal set up, and don’t believe in hoarding tons of stationery, so I just use and value what I already own. 

I don’t know if it’s strictly a work tool, but I do love combing through art history books for inspiration.

8. What is currently on your work table?

At least four or five different projects, currently! One that I can talk about is an experimental new print series illustrating everyday street-style subcultures as a take on 18th and 19th century portraiture in India.

9. What is your personal favorite pick from your brand right now? And why?

For now I would pick the Everyday Notebook in blue. I just think it’s a great notebook—I love how the illustrated pattern has come out, and I’ve received tons of positive feedback from customers on the buttery paper that holds up well for both writing and sketching.

10. What are your displaying at the By Hand, From The Heart Makers Market in Chennai?

I am displaying a range of affordable art for the home, inspired by my surroundings, the natural world, and the beauty of everyday life! There will be art prints and original works; posters, notebooks, planners, stickers, and cards; and a small selection of other illustrated products for the home such as screen printed tote bags, cushion covers and trays.